MINDEMOYA—On December 6, Manitoulin Island was cold and blustery, with heavy snow falling at intervals making driving an issue in most places. As a result, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, which took place at the Mindemoya Pavilion, saw a very small turnout. However, the solemn event presented by Noojmowin Teg’s Sexual and Domestic Violence Services went ahead as planned, with gravity and dignity. Community partners on hand were Manitoulin Victims Services, Mnaamodzawin Health Services, Wiikwemkoong Tribal Police Services (WTPS) and the Ontario Provincial Police.
A smudging opened the ceremony and drumming by Jacob Dayfox. Marissa McCready addressed those in attendance. Ms. McCready is a social worker with the Sexual and Domestic Violence Services (SDVS). In her address, Ms. McCready said, “This issue is not just a women’s issue alone; it’s an issue that effects everyone in our community. On December 6, 1989, 14 women had their lives taken from them. Families lost loved ones, plans, hopes and dreams were shattered. Today we still mourn for them. Please take a moment as we read out the names of those gone too soon. We will be lighting a candle for each of the victims.
Ms. McCready spoke of how communities are still affected by violence against women. From January to November of this year, 39 known women’s deaths to violence have occurred in Ontario. The men charged with these criminal offences were either ex-spouses, boyfriends, brothers, sons, or nephews, a male co-worker, neighbour, friend or another man closely known to the victims. She asked again that everyone take a moment to reflect on these lost lives. “As we reflect, we also consider the missing and murdered indigenous people who are systemically underreported.” Ms. McCready then read aloud the names of the 39 women who have lost their lives to violence here in Ontario in 2025. Of the 39 victims, 10 of them were listed as Jane Doe, a disturbing realization that much more still needs to be done to protect women’s safety and well-being.
Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada addressed this National Day of Remembrance and Action in this way: “On December 6, 1989, 14 women were murdered at the hands of a man who believed his problems were caused and perpetuated by women.”
The misogyny that led to such a horrific outcome still exists today. Increasingly disturbing behaviour towards women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples, including hate-fuelled online discourse and physical and emotional abuse, create a climate of fear and insecurity that has no place in Canada.
But hope is not lost, so long as we dedicate ourselves to action. To end gender-based violence, we must continue to speak out against those who minimize the contributions of women and who attempt to silence their voices with threats and aggression.
Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, Nathalie Croteau, Barbara Daigneault, AnneMarie Edward, Maud Haviernick, Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz, Maryse Laganière, Maryse Leclair, Anne-Marie Lemay, Michèle Richard, Sonia Pelletier, Annie St-Arneault and Annie Turcotte. We will remember you.”
In Mindemoya, the candles were lit in silent reflection. A walk in solidarity followed, bringing awareness to the community that something important was happening here. On this day of remembrance, these women have not been forgotten.
by Margery Frisch
